DE102018202185A1 - Device for optimizing a gastronomic operation - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for transmitting information, for example, a guest of a catering business to optimize the gastronomic operation. In particular, the invention relates to a device for transmitting information in the form of a voice input.
The invention relates to a gastronomic device (100) comprising at least one furnishing (140) with a locally integrated local module (110) and at least one central data processing system (130), wherein the local module (110) is adapted to electronic data to the central Data processing system (130), wherein the local module has at least one microphone (111) and a voice recording start device (112), which are adapted to generate an audio file as the electronic data from the voice recording, wherein in the central data processing system (130) a speech recognizer is arranged to analyze the transmitted electronic data for contained speech and to translate information contained therein into a text and send it to a base station (120) of the gastronomic device (100) for requesting an item of information included in the information there is suitably issued in order to be able to transport the object to the item of furniture with the stationary local module (110).

Description

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a device and a method for transmitting information, for example, a guest of a catering business to optimize the gastronomic operation. In particular, the invention relates to a device for transmitting information in the form of a voice input.

State of the art

The conventional process of serving guests in restaurants is complex, time-consuming and error-prone. First, for example, a service person has to go to the guest, take him to a table and inform him about the offer. This usually happens through a menu, special requests are presented orally; Queries cost additional time. If the guest has to wait too long, it can lead to his dissatisfaction and even annoyance. If a question from the guest, for example about the possibility of realizing a special request, can not be answered by the service staff, then this consultation must hold, whereby it usually has to move away from the guest, and then again visit the guest to inform him about the result of the consultation ,

In modern catering establishments, the service personnel are already equipped with technical devices via which an order is entered and forwarded to a central server. The central server can pass the order to the kitchen where the order is placed. At the same time, the order can be stored in the central server, for example, to be available for the creation of the invoice. However, a service person is still required to take the order. Especially in seifservice restaurants, mobile messaging systems are used that indicate the guest when a submitted order is ready to be picked up. Even in such restaurants, the guest must place his order with a service employee, even having to go to that service person.

From the German patent application DE 102012105251 A1 is an ordering system for restaurants known. Table seats of a restaurant are each provided with a smartphone readable identification means, so that each table space is identifiable by the unique identifier. The unique identifiers will be stored in a database on a central server connected to the Internet, with the assigned table space and an offer list available for this purpose. The guest reads the identification of the identification means with a suitable application of his smartphone, in which case the application of the smartphone establishes an Internet connection with the server and transmits the read-in identification as information. The server transmits to the application of the smartphone the offer list available for the identification and the application displays the offer list on the display of the smartphone as a selection menu. The customer selects the food and drinks to be ordered with the smartphone and the application of the smartphone transmits the customer's order to the server. The server establishes an Internet connection with a computer or smartphone of the provider and transmits the order of the guest together with the marking of the table or table space. The provider then delivers the ordered food and drinks to the table.

The disadvantage here is that the guest must use his own mobile device for the ordering process and install an individual application of the catering business. This is very time consuming and error prone. The individual application also takes up storage space on the mobile device. Furthermore, the guest must carry out the localization himself by having to read in the labeling of the means of identification with his smartphone. It is therefore desirable to have available an apparatus which facilitates replacement of e.g. optimizes gastronomic information and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. Under gastronomy-specific information here and below all information is understood that incurred in a catering business in particular in the communication between a guest and the catering business. These may be, for example, order information, reservation information, service information or similar. act.

Summary

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and a method which optimizes an exchange of information or an ordering process between, for example, a guest and a host of a restaurant operation and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a gastronomic device comprising at least one furnishing object with a locally integrated local module and at least one central data processing system, wherein the local module is designed to transmit electronic data to the central data processing system, wherein the local module has at least one microphone and a voice recording start device, which are adapted to generate an audio file as the electronic data from the voice recording, wherein in the central data processing system, a speech recognition device is designed such that parses the transmitted electronic data for contained speech and translates information contained therein into a text and sends it to a base station of the gastronomic device so that a request for an item contained in the information is appropriately outputted there, to deliver the item to the fixed local item To transport the module.

The term gastronomic device is understood to mean a technical device in an operation, preferably a catering business, in which a first person, for example a guest, transmits information to a central location, for example an order or another request to a service point. Thus, the catering business, for example, a restaurant, a bar, a hotel or even a hospital or a nursing home or senior residence.

The use in an office environment is also conceivable. A piece of furniture may include a piece of furniture such as a table, a table group, a bench, a lamp, etc. This is one or more physical objects that conventionally occur in an operation.

The local module is fixedly connected to the furniture. Stationary means that, for example, via a mechanical fixation there is a clear, higher-level assignment to a piece of furniture. This does not exclude that the local module can be wireless as long as the association exists. The local module can send electronic data to the central data processing system via a network. Network here and below is any type of network, such as a wireless network or the Internet. A successful connection can be signaled on the local module. For example, a visualization can be done on the local module. For example, information about the local modules, e.g. Connection status to the base station, battery status, connected guests with the table module, placed orders or pre-recorded reservations can be viewed at the base station. For example, an order process can be entered by a guest via the local module, then be forwarded via the wireless data connection, such as WLAN, Bluetooth, radio or NFC (Near Field Communication) to the central data processing system or to the base station. For example, the connection can be established via a physical data communication device. The information received by the local module may be sent in the form of an audio file from the central data processing system. Also, the information may be previously sent to the base station to be forwarded to the central processing facility.

In the central data processing system, which can be, for example, a computer, a server or a cloud, the order information can be analyzed and further processed for statistical purposes, for example. Subsequently, the order information can be sent from the central data processing system to the base station, where it is displayed for implementation. In the base station, for example, the order information can be analyzed and further processed for statistical purposes. Information, for example an order information, can be entered by the guest, for example by voice over the microphone. This makes the input intuitive and very easy for the guest. About the output device of the local module information can be given to the guest. For example, an order confirmation can be made. If an entered guest request can not be fulfilled, this can be communicated to the guest and, for example, an alternative for the non-fulfillable request can be offered. An audible copy (audio file) of the information entered via voice in the local module can be stored in the base station. The voice recording starting device may, for example, be a button which has to be kept pressed in order to start and to keep the voice recording active. The activity status of the voice recording can be displayed to the user by the visualization device. By using such a voice recording start device, in particular in conjunction with the visualization device, the user can recognize whether a voice recording is active and in particular also when it is not active and, for example, his calls are not recorded. An alternative to the button as Sprachaufnahmestartvorrichtung represents, for example, a timed relay that is activated with the operation of the voice recording start device and stops after a preset time, the voice recording. The voice recording start device may establish a physical connection between the at least one microphone and a voice recorder. The voice recording itself also offers the advantage in e.g. Discrepancies during payment serve as proof of whether the guest has made the order or not.

In one embodiment, the local module is configured to establish a wireless data connection with the base station and / or the central data processing system via a network, while the base station is set up to establish a data connection at least with the central data processing system.

As described above, the central data processing system may be a cloud capable of analyzing and processing ordering information for static purposes. In another embodiment, the base station is a cloud. In this embodiment, each module has a data connection to the cloud. Alternatively, the power of the module is suitable for running an analysis of the input. In another embodiment, the base station is a smartphone, tablet or notebook. It is also possible that the base station is the same as the central data processing system or vice versa. This has the advantage of saving resources.

The local integration into a piece of furniture localization of the local module is very easy and a communicated via the local module information directly to a place, such as a table in a catering business, assignable. The local module can have a display device, for example a display device with LEDs. For power supply, the local module may have a rechargeable battery, in particular in the form of a replaceable battery pack, which may be held in a receptacle of the local module. The recording can be designed so that the battery pack can not be removed without technical aids. In addition, it is conceivable that the state of charge of the battery pack is constantly monitored by the local module and constantly or only when reaching a previously defined threshold, the local module transmits the state of charge to the base station. Alternatively or additionally, an internal, i. non-replaceable battery, which can also be designed as a rechargeable battery, be installed. For stationary local modules, a wired energy supply is also conceivable. In the case of wired energy supply, a power supply unit may be required, wherein the power supply unit may be designed as an alternative to the battery pack in the same receptacle. Furthermore, the local module can have a loudspeaker.

The local module advantageously has a robust and at least splash-proof housing. In restaurants, drinks or cleaning fluids can cause splashing water. When used in outdoor catering, it is also possible for weathering to occur, which protects the module in this way. This compliance with, for example, the protection class IP 54 after DIN EN 60 529 advantageous by the housing.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the local module is a wireless (native) module. The wireless module has the advantage that the guest is easy to bring in a comfortable position for him in terms of information input or output. Furthermore, the positioning has the advantage that it obviates potential physical disabilities, e.g. Stumbling hazard for the guest or staff reduced.

The local module may have an automatic brightness adjustment. Depending on the time of day, the lighting conditions in or outside a restaurant are very different. This poses a problem for the built-in lighting or the display in the local module. In very bright environments, there is a risk that the guest will not perceive an optical signal. Conversely, there is the danger that when the ambient light is low, an optical signal of the local module is perceived as too bright and unpleasant. To avoid these disadvantages, the local module may have a brightness sensor. It measures the intensity of ambient lighting and automatically adjusts the brightness of the local module's internal illumination. Furthermore, the local module may also have an automatic volume adjustment. For example, in a catering business, the volume may fluctuate greatly, depending on the number and number of visitors, both in terms of time and place. It is quite possible that in one area of a restaurant there is a very loud group of guests, while in another area there are only a few and very quiet guests. If the locally prevailing noise level is ignored, communication problems may arise with the local module. It is quite conceivable that a guest may not understand the answers of a local module due to a loud environment or that a response from the local module may be perceived as unpleasantly loud by a quiet environment. By continuously analyzing the sounds in the vicinity of a local module in the respective module, a two-dimensional noise map can be created that can serve as the basis for the automatic volume control of the speakers in the local module. If a local module receives the audio file for playback and information about the volume of the environment before each audio output, the volume of the playback of the audio file can be adjusted accordingly. The continuous analysis of the ambient noise can be carried out, for example, by an audio sensor integrated in addition to the microphone, which measures the ambient volume continuously or discontinuously. Additionally or alternatively Ambient noise can also be recorded with the built-in microphone. Once the voice recording startup device is activated, the Micro also picks up ambient noise. The environmental volume information can be analyzed in the local module or sent to the base stations for analysis. Accordingly, the volume adjustment signals can be generated directly in the local module or in the base station and transmitted to the local module. Thus, in this embodiment, in addition to the microphone, the local module may have a built-in audio sensor that can continuously or discontinuously measure an ambient volume so that the local module can produce a two-dimensional noise map by analyzing the ambient volume as the basis for automatic volume control of the loudspeakers in the loudspeaker local module serves.

In a further advantageous embodiment, an anti-theft alarm device is integrated in the device, which device is configured to indicate a removal of the local module from a predetermined space. There is a fear that in particular mobile local modules can be stolen by third parties. For example, if the mobile local module is permanently located over the wireless connection to the base station, it can be immediately determined when the mobile local module leaves a predetermined area around the base station and countermeasures can be initiated immediately. The localization can be done, for example, by continuously measuring the signal strength of the electromagnetic field built up by the transmitters in the wireless network for wireless connection. For example, the wireless connection can be made via a wireless local area network (WLAN). In this case, an access point (access point) or several access points distributed in space can be provided. The mobile local modules can log on to these access points, whereby the respective signal strength of the transmitting local modules can be measured. The signal strength decreases with the distance of the sending local module from an access point. If the individual local modules are known, it can be detected very quickly if the signal strength of a local module falls below a predetermined threshold.

Another way of localizing mobile local modules is to measure the signal transit time of the transmitted signals between a mobile local module to the access point (s) and vice versa. For this purpose also test signals can be blessed. The signal propagation time increases with the distance of the transmitter to the receiver.

In another embodiment, the module may be suitable as a card holder. For this purpose, a slot can be integrated on the surface of the local module which is suitable for holding simple, flat cards. Depending on the restaurant, menus in paper form are popular. The guest can take the menus and then order directly at the table. This embodiment has the advantage of saving space on the table.

In an advantageous embodiment, the local module allows the input of localization information at a discrete location, the localization information being affirmable via an acknowledgment device established at the discrete location. The discrete location may be, for example, a particular table (or other piece of furniture, or guest / guest group) in a catering establishment. For this purpose, this table may for example be provided with a table number. The device provided for confirmation may, for example, be a button on the table, which is also operatively connected to the base station. This connection can be wired or wireless. The confirmation ensures that the guest performed the localization of the discrete location without error.

In an advantageous alternative embodiment, the local module is set up to automatically generate its location information and transmit it to the base station. The localization information can be generated as already described above, for example via a signal strength measurement or via a signal propagation time measurement. By corresponding parallel measurements to at least two reference points, the location of a transmitter can be determined exactly. Thus, it is possible to accurately determine the location of a local module within an allowed range, as long as the local module is connected to at least two access points. By matching this localization information with previously collected information about the installation locations of the pieces of furniture, for example the tables in a guest room, the assignment of a local module to a piece of furniture or piece of furniture can be clearly determined. The adjustment and the assignment can be done, for example, in the base station.

The localization information can also be used to control access to the network, in particular also to the Internet. So it is also conceivable that, for example, registered a guest for a table reservation with personal information and set up a personalized network access via the linkage of these data with the localization data and a timestamp. The control can be done via the base station. The internet connection can also be closed automatically As soon as the base station receives the information that the guest will finish his stay in the catering business in the near future or has already finished. For example, the information about a payment process can be used to disconnect the corresponding Internet connection.

It has proved to be advantageous if the local module is set up to establish the wireless data connection with the base station and / or the central data processing system by means of WLAN, Bluetooth or NFC (Near Field Communication).

In an advantageous embodiment, the local module is configured to display reservation information of a service. The reservation information may be, for example, the information about a gastronomy-specific service such as a table reservation. The guest can be shown if a certain table is reserved at a certain time.

By integrating the device according to the invention and the connection of these to the cash register system, it is possible to get to the information which tables of the catering business are currently occupied and how long they are already occupied. Statistical data can be used to calculate how long each table will be approximately occupied. As a result, a table reservation function can be realized. Reserved tables can be characterized by, for example, an optical signal. For example, after a successful reservation, a user can obtain the table ID of the reserved table. This can be a table number or also an optical signal with which the reserved table is marked by the local module. This information can be transmitted to the guest, for example via a messenger service such as WhatsApp or a text message, such as an SMS, from the device. The device can optimally occupy tables in terms of occupancy and number of people. A table reservation can be made either by a user or an operator. A user can make a reservation request either via a website, an application (App) or by means of a message, for example as WhatsApp, SMS or e-mail. If a reservation on the desired date is not possible, the device may, for example, the user an alternative time suggested. As a result, the table occupancy must not be disclosed and the guest is not deterred by the fact that no table at his desired time is free. The user can either view the current or future table occupancy via the website or app and reserve their preferred table at a specific time. The operator can also reserve a table by means of the base station, if a user prefers to reserve a table by phone. The local module can also autonomously remove a reservation if a guest cancels a reservation in the system. Also, the local module can autonomously remove a reservation if the guest has not appeared after a certain time after the reserved time. In addition to the reservation, the guest can also enter his order in advance in the device, which can reduce waiting time for the guest. The device also provides a solution to habitual guests who are not always getting their usual table at the usual time by previously blocking the table through a permanent reservation or a targeted personal habits analysis.

It has also proved advantageous if the base station has a display module and a loudspeaker and is set up to control the device. The display module displays the information entered by the guest. Furthermore, the information can also be converted into speech and output via the loudspeaker, the information not having to be converted to speech if the guest has already entered it in speech form. For example, the controller may include updating reservation information and terminating access from a particular smartphone after a payment transaction has occurred.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the base station has a speech recognition device, wherein the speech recognition device is set up to analyze the language contained in the containing speech file received by the local module, to recognize foreign languages and to translate them into a target language and the information contained in the speech file to translate and display in text, provided that the information entered via language is convertible into text and otherwise reproduce the voice file. For example, it may happen that the speech input for the speech recognition device is spoken too indistinctly, so that speech recognition is not possible. In this case, the voice file can be played unprocessed, If a service employee can not filter out the information from the delivered speech, can be inquired with the guest.

In a further embodiment, the central data processing system has such a speech recognition device. The advantage of this is that the performance of the base station can be reduced because the speech recognition device usually requires increased performance of the device on which it is installed. This advantage will be especially then larger, if an operator operates several catering establishments in different locations, so that the purchase of several powerful base stations can be avoided.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a reservation system is installed on the base station, wherein in the reservation system the reservation of a service such as a table reservation can be stored and wherein a reservation request via a network to the reservation system can be transmitted, in the reservation system of the reservation request verifiable in terms of its feasibility if the reservation request is feasible, a reservation confirmation can be generated by the reservation system and, if the reservation request is unfeasible, a reservation rejection can be generated and sent via the network to the reservation sender, wherein the information for a reservation for a service service can be sent from the base station to the local module.

The device can also map optional additional functions. With the available information, for example, statistical evaluations and analyzes can be made. Furthermore, further information about the weather can be retrieved at the local module, for example, and further requests, such as the order of a taxi, can be transmitted. Furthermore, for example, a service staff can be asked to the table and payment transactions are performed.

It is also possible to implement additional functions in the device. Such additional functions may include, for example, the acquisition and management of loyalty points relating to the pre-ordering of services, the display of lists of services offered, such as digital menus and drinks menus, including additional information such as ingredient information, billing composition, allocation and settlement to be a digital payment system. Furthermore, a feedback function can be implemented, via which a guest can direct feedback to the operator of the restaurant operation. In addition, it is possible to provide information about special promotions, especially temporary special promotions or dynamic ones. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that a guest can already see orders placed on his table.

• - Generieren einer Audiodatei als elektronische Daten aus einer Sprachaufnahme durch das Mikrofon des lokalen Moduls;
• - Übertragen von elektronischen Daten vom lokalen Modul zur zentralen Datenverarbeitungsanlage;
• - Analysieren der übertragenen elektronischen Daten auf enthaltende Sprache durch eine Spracherkennungseinrichtung und ein Überführen einer darin enthaltende Information in einem Text;
• - Senden des Textes an eine Basisstation der gastronomischen Vorrichtung (100); und
• - Transportieren eines in der Information angeforderten Gegenstandes zur Einrichtungsgegenstand mit dem ortsfesten lokalen Modul.

The object is further achieved by a method for operating a gastronomic device according to the invention, wherein the gastronomic device comprises at least one furnishing with a locally integrated local module and at least one central data processing system, wherein the local module has at least one microphone and a voice recording start device, comprising:

• Generating an audio file as electronic data from a voice recording by the microphone of the local module;
• - transfer of electronic data from the local module to the central data processing system;
• - Analyzing the transmitted electronic data on containing speech by a speech recognition device and transferring information contained therein in a text;
• Sending the text to a base station of the gastronomic device ( 100 ); and
• - Transporting a requested in the information item to the furniture item with the fixed local module.

It should be noted that the method can be carried out in all learned embodiments of the device according to the invention.

Further advantages, features and expedient developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings.

list of figures

• 1 Schematic representation of a device according to the invention in a first embodiment
• 2 Schematic representation of a device according to the invention in a second embodiment
• 3 a) Top view of a schematic representation of a local module within a device according to the invention;
• 3 b) Side view of a schematic representation of a local module within a device according to the invention
• 4 Method for operating the device according to the invention

Detailed description of the pictures:

1 shows a schematic representation of a device according to the invention 100 in a first embodiment. The device 100 has a base station 120 on. Furthermore, the device 100 local modules 110 , each with a piece of furniture 140 in form of Restaurant table are connected. In the 1 is for clarity only a local module 110 and a piece of furniture 140 drawn. Furthermore, the device 100 a central data processing system 130 in the form of a cloud. Between the local module 110 and the base station 120 exists a wireless data connection 201 over a WLAN. Between the base station 120 and the central data processing system 130 There is also a data connection, which may be at least partially wireless. The data connection between the base station 120 and the central data processing system 130 but can also be completely wired. The local module can also be configured to electronic data to the central data processing system 130 to transfer (not explicitly drawn). The local module 110 has at least one microphone 111 , a voice recording start device 112 (not shown), a visualization device 113 for the voice recording and an output device 114 for speech in the form of a loudspeaker. A guest can place an order via the local module 110 entered by the guest the voice recording start device 112 pressed and placed his order in the microphone 111 of the local module 110 speaks. In this case, the voice recording start device 112 be designed so that it must be pressed during the entire voice recording. In another embodiment, the voice recording start device 112 only briefly be pressed once to either stop the voice recording after a previously defined time or to leave the voice recording active until the guest the voice recording start device 112 pressed again to exit. By deliberately operating the voice recording start device 112 the guest knows that his verbal utterance is now being recorded and that after completing the voice recording he no longer needs to fear that verbal utterances around the microphone will continue to be recorded. The voice recording is from the local module 110 over the wireless data connection 201 to the base station 120 forwarded from where the voice recording to the central data processing system 130 over the data connection 205 is sent. In the central data processing system 130 which is executed in the illustrated embodiment as a cloud, takes place in a speech recognition device speech recognition, wherein the language contained in the language file is analyzed and foreign languages are recognized and translated into a target language and the information contained in the language file converted into text and to the base station 120 is returned, provided that the information entered via language is convertible into text. Otherwise, the voice file will be sent to the base station 120 sent in unchanged form. The request for an item contained in the information is then output at an appropriate location to be able to transport the item to the furnishing item (restaurant table) with the local module. The term "cloud" refers to the provision of IT infrastructure such as storage space, computing power or application software as a service over the Internet.

Could the text of the voice file in the central data processing system 130 This text will be converted via the data connection 205 to the base station 120 sent where he is to implement on a display module 121 is shown. If the language file could not be converted to text, the central data processing system can 130 the voice file over the data connection 205 to the base station 120 send, where he has to implement through speakers 122 is issued. The voice file (or audio file) does not have to be sent automatically. As a result, the host or waiter sees on his side that a certain order unit (table, guest group, etc.) has made an order. If the order is not displayed directly, it can only play the language file. Through its contents, he can enter the order manually if necessary or ask the ordering party directly. This device and the corresponding method (and the resulting system) has the advantage that a high reproducibility of the order and thus a high reliability can be ensured.

The local module 110 also has an output device 114 in the form of a loudspeaker, about which information can be given to the guest. If, for example, a service employee can not filter out the information from the transmitted voice file, the guest can use the output device, for example 114 of the local module 110 be inquired. Furthermore, an order confirmation via the output device 114 of the local module 110 respectively. If an entered guest request can not be fulfilled, this can also be done to the guest via the output device 114 of the local module 110 be communicated and, for example, an alternative for the unfulfillable request offered.

By doing that, the local module 110 as stationary integrated with the furniture 140 is the localization of the local module 110 very easy and one via the local module 110 transmitted information can directly a place, such as a table (or several small tables that form a table unit) in a catering business as a piece of furniture 140 be assigned.

In 2 is a second embodiment of the device according to the invention 100 shown. In this embodiment, the local module is 110 on wireless module. The wireless module 110 has the advantage that it is easy for the guest in a pleasant for him information input or output position can be brought. The wireless local module 110 allows input of localization information in a discrete location such as a particular table as a fixture 140 , In this case, the furniture article 140 has a confirmation device 141 on, bringing the from the mobile local module 110 Information about the location sent to the base station can be confirmed. The information about the location may be, for example, a table number attached to the piece of furniture 140 is appropriate. The confirming device is in the embodiment shown a button mounted on the table, which is also connected to the base station via a data link 202 connected is. This connection can be wired or wireless. The confirmation ensures that the guest performed the localization of the discrete location without error. The remaining structure of the device and sequence corresponds to the 1 described.

When using mobile local modules 110 may be the integration of an anti-theft device into the device 100 be beneficial. In this case, the anti-theft alarm device can be set up to remove the local module 110 from a previously specified room. Because the mobile local module 110 constantly over the wireless connection 201 to the base station 120 can be located immediately if the mobile local module 110 a predetermined area around the base station 120 leaves and countermeasures can be initiated immediately.

3 shows a physical embodiment of the local module 110 , The local module 110 features on the surface ( 3a , Top view of a local module) a display 125 , at least one glass plate with touch function (short touch) 118 and RGB indicator LEDs 117 , the display 125 is on the top surface of the case 126 integrated with the local module to give a user the opportunity to interact. On the display 125 For example, the user may be shown his order so that he has the opportunity to confirm it. the display 125 For example, for table reservations, you can display a reservation number and / or time of reservation. the display 125 can be made of LED or OLED. OLED displays have the advantages that they have low power consumption, allow a flatter construction (so that the height of the local module is also lower) compared to LEDs, have a high contrast resolution and good beam angle (Lambertian). The glass plate with touch function 118 is located on top of the local module 110 on the one hand to offer the opportunity on the one hand the module 110 visually enhance and on the other hand the module 110 splash-proof. Furthermore, the touch function has 118 the technical task is the microphone 111 to unlock the sound recording. In combination with an (O) LED display 125 Can the glass plate with touch function 118 for further operation such as confirmation of the order or "wiping" of individual items within the order. The RGB display LEDs 117 on the top of the case 126 are used to display status, such as red for an existing reservation. A glow of the LEDs 117 are not limited to a static lighting. The LEDs 117 In order to display different statuses, they can also be flashing or run as running light as well as other states.

3b shows the side view of a possible local module 110 , The local module 110 in 3b consists of at least one battery 115 , a microphone 111 , a diffuser 116 , a speaker 122 , a single-board computer 119 , a dB sensor 124 , a brightness sensor 123 and the components 117 . 118 and 125 out 3a at the top of the local module 110 , The used accumulator 115 can be standardized lithium batteries with high capacity to ensure high flexibility and interchangeability. One or more batteries 115 are preferred in the feet 127 of the local module accommodated by the height and weight distribution of the local module 110 to optimize. For at least two batteries 115 these are discharged separately by a suitable circuit. In the case of a discharged battery 115 can be signaled to the operator, so that this with a lead time the discharged battery by a full battery 115 can swap. The accumulators preferably have 115 own flaps in the housing, which are arranged so that accidental opening (by eg the customer) can be prevented. At least one, preferably several microphones are evenly distributed at the top of the housing installed. This allows a direction-independent audio recording or an optimized noise suppression. The microphones 111 are preferably MEMS microphones. In addition, ensures an active operation of the user, such as a finger on the touch function 118 for the activation of the microphone 111 , a technically safe operation, where a software manipulation is not possible. The diffuser 116 is via the RGB indicator LEDs 117 attached to generate a visually rounded. The diffuser is preferred 116 from a white material. The diffuser is preferred 116 right and left of the display 115 appropriate. At least one speaker 122 is at the local module 110 appropriate. This is preferably on the lower side of the module 110 appropriate. By this attachment, the device can be splash-proof. In addition, there is the technical advantage that a resonant surface caused by the table (or any other piece of furniture) will produce sounds from the speaker 122 good for the user. The single-board computer 119 is a local processing unit to which all individual components are connected. The single-board computer is preferred 119 a powerful mini-computer with WLAN module. To the tasks of the single-board computer 119 Among other things, it includes communication with other modules 110 , Base station 120 or the location of a module. The dB sensor 124 is preferably a MEMS microphone, which is connected to a suitable Auswertehardware. Through the evaluation, an ambient volume can be converted proportionally into a voltage. This has the advantage that a software-technically manipulated audio recording can be prevented. The dB sensor 124 further allows the technical detail that allows a volume adjustment of the speakers to the user, or the user environment. At least one brightness sensor 123 will be in the upper part of the case 126 to capture the current brightness in the room. With multiple brightness sensors 123 These are preferably distributed so that the influence of a source of interference, such as one directly on the module 110 lit table lamp, is reduced. An average of all sensors 123 is used as reference. By adjusting (eg to the reference) can be a suitable brightness of the RGB indicator LEDs 117 and the display 125 can be adjusted so that the user experiences an appropriate brightness (eg not dazzled in the dark, good readability in bright rooms). The shape and size of the case 126 of the module 110 is preferably chosen so that as little space from a piece of furniture (eg table) is used to, for example, in the catering the number of possible meals on a table not to reduce. Furthermore, it is preferred that the local module can only be switched off by the base station in order to prevent manipulation attempts by the user.

• - Generieren 210 einer Audiodatei als elektronische Daten aus einer Sprachaufnahme durch das Mikrofon 111 des lokalen Moduls;
• - Übertragen 220 von elektronischen Daten vom lokalen Modul 110 zur zentralen Datenverarbeitungsanlage 130;
• - Analysieren 230 der übertragenen elektronischen Daten auf enthaltende Sprache durch eine Spracherkennungseinrichtung und ein Überführen einer darin enthaltende Information in einem Text;
• - Senden 240 des Textes an eine Basisstation 120 der gastronomischen Vorrichtung 100; und
• - Transportieren 250 eines in der Information angeforderten Gegenstandes zur Einrichtungsgegenstand mit dem ortsfesten lokalen Modul 110.

4 describes a method 200 for operating a gastronomic device according to the invention 100 , the gastronomic device 100 at least one piece of furniture with a locally integrated local module 110 and at least one central data processing system 130 includes, wherein the local module at least one microphone 111 and a voice recording start device 112 comprising:

• - To generate 210 an audio file as electronic data from a voice recording by the microphone 111 the local module;
• - Transfer 220 electronic data from the local module 110 to the central data processing system 130 ;
• - Analyze 230 the speech containing electronic data transmitted by a speech recognition device and transferring therein information in a text;
• - Send 240 the text to a base station 120 the gastronomic device 100 ; and
• - Transport 250 an item of information requested in the information item on the item of furniture with the fixed local module 110 ,

The embodiments shown herein are only examples of the present invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting. Alternative embodiments contemplated by one skilled in the art are equally within the scope of the present invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

gastronomic device

110

local module

111

microphone

112

Voice Recording starter

113

visualization device

114

output device

115

Accumulator (battery)

116

diffuser

117

RGB display LED

118

Glass plate with touch function

119

single board computer

120

base station

121

display module

122

speaker

123

brightness sensor

124

dB sensor

125

Display (LED or OLED)

126

casing

127

Feet of a local module

130

central data processing system

140

Fitment

141

confirmation device

150

room

200

Method for operating the device according to the invention

201

wireless data connection between local module and base station

202

Data connection between acknowledgment device and base station

205

Data connection between base station and central data processing system

210

Generate an audio file as electronic data from a voice recording

220

Transferring electronic data from the local module to the central data processing system;

230

Analyzing the transmitted electronic data for containing speech by a speech recognition device and transferring therein information in a text

240

Sending the text to a base station of the gastronomic device

250

Transporting an item requested in the information to the item of furniture with the fixed local module

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102012105251 A1 [0004]

Cited non-patent literature

• DIN EN 60 529 [0015]

Claims (15)

A gastronomic device (100) comprising at least one piece of furniture (140) with a locally integrated local module (110) and at least one central data processing system (130), wherein the local module (110) is configured to transmit electronic data to the central data processing system (130 ), wherein the local module comprises at least one microphone (111) and a voice recording start device (112) adapted to generate an audio file as the electronic data from the voice recording, wherein in the central data processing system (130) a speech recognition device is configured to analyze the transmitted electronic data for contained speech and to translate information contained therein into a text and send it to a base station (120) of the gastronomic device (100) for suitably outputting therein a request for an item contained in the information wi rd in order to transport the object to the furniture item with the stationary local module (110) can. The gastronomic device (100) according to Claim 1 characterized in that the local module (110) is adapted to establish a wireless data connection with the base station (120) and / or the central data processing system (130) via a network while the base station (120) is adapted to provide a data connection at least with the central data processing system (130) build. The gastronomic device (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the central data processing system (130) is a cloud capable of analyzing and processing order information for static purposes. The gastronomic device (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 characterized in that integrated in the gastronomic device (100) is an anti-theft device configured to indicate removal of the local module (110) from a predetermined space (150). The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base station (120) is a smartphone, a notebook or a tablet. The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central data processing system (130) is the same as the base station (120). The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the local module (110) has a robust and at least splash-proof housing. The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the local module (110) in addition to the microphone has a built-in audio sensor, which can continuously or discontinuously measure an ambient volume, so that the local module by analyzing the ambient volume a two-dimensional Create a noise map, which serves as the basis for automatic volume control of the speakers in the local module. The gastronomic device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the local module (110) enables input of localization information in a discrete location, the localization information being provided via an acknowledgment device (8) established at the discrete location ( 141) is confirmable. The gastronomic device (100) according to any one of Claims 1 - 8th , characterized in that the local module (110) is adapted to automatically generate and transmit its location information to the base station (120). The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base station (120) has a display module (121) and a loudspeaker (122) and is arranged to control the device (100). The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base station (120) comprises a speech recognition device, wherein the speech recognition device is adapted to receive a speech file, to analyze the language file contained in the speech file, to recognize foreign languages and to translate into a target language and to translate the information contained in the language file in text and display in the base station (120), provided that the information entered via speech is translatable into text and otherwise the voice file on the base station (120). The gastronomic device (100) according to any one of Claims 2 to 11 , characterized in that the central data processing system (130) comprises a speech recognition device, wherein the speech recognition device is arranged to receive a voice file from the base station (120), to analyze the language contained in the voice file, to recognize foreign languages and translate them into a target language and to translate the information contained in the speech file into text and sent to the base station (120 ), provided that the information entered via speech is translatable into text and otherwise sending the voice file to the base station (120). The gastronomic device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a reservation system is installed on the base station (120), wherein in the reservation system the reservation of a service can be stored and wherein a reservation request can be transmitted via a network to the reservation system, wherein in the reservation system the reservation request regarding its executability is verifiable and the reservation system in feasibility of Reservierungswunsches a reservation confirmation or Nichtausführbarkeit the reservation request a reservation rejection can be generated and sent over the network to the reservation sender, the information for a reservation for a service of the Base station (120) to the local module (110) is sendable. A method (200) for operating a catering device (100) Claim 1 wherein the gastronomic device (100) comprises at least one piece of furniture (140) having a locally integrated local module (110) and at least one central data processing system (130), the local module having at least one microphone (111) and a voice recording start device (112). comprising: generating (210) an audio file as electronic data from a voice recording by the microphone (111) of the local module; - transmitting (220) electronic data from the local module (110) to the central data processing system (130); - analyzing (230) the transmitted electronic data for contained speech by a speech recognition device and transferring therein information in a text; - sending (240) the text to a base station (120) of the gastronomic device (100); and - transporting (250) an item of information requested in the information to the furniture item with the fixed local module (110).

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